YouTuber Pokharel released
He was taken into custody by the District Police Office, Panchthar, based on findings related to alleged online misconduct.
KATHMANDU: Roshan Pokharel, a YouTuber accused of publishing insulting and abusive content against Prime Minister Balen Shah and other political leaders through his YouTube channel, has been released on condition that he remains available for investigation when required.
According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Anish Karan, chief of the District Police Office, Panchthar, Pokharel was released after being handed over to his family under the condition of future appearance as needed.
Pokharel, a resident of Phalgunanda Rural Municipality–7 in Panchthar, was arrested on April 9 following an investigation initiated by the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau.
He was taken into custody by the District Police Office, Panchthar, based on findings related to alleged online misconduct.
Following his arrest, the District Court of Panchthar had granted a 10-day extension for further investigation.
After his detention and subsequent release, the case has sparked widespread discussion on social media.
Critics of the arrest have begun resharing old Facebook posts and videos of Prime Minister Balen Shah, along with various comments and reactions, intensifying online debate over freedom of expression and digital content regulation.
Authorities have stated that the investigation remains ongoing, and Pokharel may be required to appear before law enforcement again if necessary.
